How to Cat Proof a Garden
Building an Escape Proof Fence to Ensure Cats are Safe
The outside world holds many dangers for cats, yet indoor life often does not suit them. An escape proof cat garden solves the dilemma.
Many people would like to let their cats go outside, but they worry about road accidents, wild animal attacks, or the cat straying. A Cat Proof Garden allows the cat to enjoy the outside world in complete safely.
The Cat Proof Fence: is it Possible?
Cat proofing a garden is difficult, but not impossible. A high fence alone simply will not do; the cat will just climb it. What is required is a high fence with something at the top that will prevent the cat climbing over it. How can this be done?
How to Build a Cat Proof Fence.
Plastic netting is most suitable for the fence, since it is flexible and therefore difficult for the cat to climb. Some owners have used chicken wire, and claim that this works. The netting must be attached to wooden uprights at intervals, and should be at least seven feet high. It must go right round the outside of the garden. Care should be taken if there are any sheds, trees, or large bushes, as the cat could use these to jump over the fence – a determined cat can be an excellent escapologist!
The design of the top of the fence is most important. There should be a flexible wire overhang, either at right angles to the fence, or at 45 degrees and then 45 degrees again – a bit like a lobster pot in design. This should be wide enough that the cat cannot jump over it; owners who have successfully built such a fence suggest at least 2 – 3 feet in width.
If the garden already has a fence, it may be possible to use this, simply attaching the wire overhang at the top. However, if the fence is too low, or easy for a cat to climb, it may be safer to erect a new wire fence inside the original one.
Such a fence should keep any cat safe, but in the early days cats should only be allowed out under supervision, to check that the fence really works! Obviously, every garden is different, so the principles may need to be adapted slightly to suit each case. But such fences have been used for gardens in many different situations, with a high degree of success.
No Good at DIY?
Once provided with an explanation, any joiner or handyman should be able to build a cat proof fence. Or there are several companies that provide similar solutions, and some will also erect the fence if required. This is not a cheap option, but it will provide happiness for the cat, and peace of mind for the owner.
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